Fender Japan '52 Telecaster, crafted in Japan 1997-98, vintage natural finish. If you're after a classic Tele, they don't get a whole lot more classic than this. This is a high-end '52 style T, so you get some really nice appointments: proper lightweight ash body, one piece maple neck, brass saddle bridge for extra definition and sustain and a pair of sweet USA Custom Shop made Texas Special pickups. The pickups deliver a stack of hot-rodded Tele-tone: thick, juicy bass and clear, singing highs, all balanced by an articulate, responsive midrange. This really does sound excellent; it's classic Tele-twang with a bit of extra heat and attitude. The ash body features some really pretty grain, the back is especially stunning. These high-end Japanese Teles really do hold their own against anything Fender have done out of the US; this is perfectly satisfying to both the hands and ears. Tasty T!

Model: Fender Telecaster '52 Reissue (TL52-80TX)
Made: Japan, 1997-98 (CIJ, serial A011916)
Finish: vintage natural (VNT), single ply black guard
Body: light weight ash
Neck: maple, maple board, very mild V-profile
Mods: none
Weight: 3.6kg
Pickups: Fender USA Texas Special single coils
Case: none

Cosmetic condition notes: minor finish wear. There's a few very minor dings, most notably on the front behind the knobs and on the back near the bottom edge, they're neither deep for nasty. The guard has lifted approx 1mm on the top, as is common with 1ply guards, but it's of no consequence. There's some minor pitting on the bridge plate, and the tip of the switch is missing. Overall: excellent condition (8.5/10)

Playing condition notes: Action is low, neck is straight, intonation is good, truss rod works. All electronics tested and working properly. The frets are in good shape with minor wear only, around 8/10 for life left. Tidy Tele.